FRANKLY SPEAKING WITH FRANCA

Q: I feel like I’m always the strong one for everyone else. But no one checks on me. What should I do?

Franca’s Answer:

Being “the strong one” can become a silent burden.

People often assume you don’t need support because you appear composed.

But strength does not mean you don’t deserve care.

Ask yourself honestly:
Have you allowed yourself to be vulnerable? Or have you trained everyone to see you as unshakable?

Sometimes we unintentionally teach people how to treat us.

You can start small. Share when you’re overwhelmed. Express when you need help. Not dramatically — just honestly.

Strength is not about carrying everything alone.

True strength includes knowing when to say, “I need support too.”